Why Is Eating Breakfast a Good Idea?

by WiredBerries Editors — November 21, 2007

A nutritious breakfast is a great way to jump-start the day, but there are lots of other health factors to consider. Studies examining eating habits have found that the regular consumption of breakfast can:

• Reduce the risk of obesity and high cholesterol
• Enhance performance on memory-related tasks
• Help prevent insulin resistance (a condition that can lead to type-2 diabetes and heart disease)
• Minimize overeating throughout the day
• Enhance school performance in children and young adults
• Increase intake of essential nutrients that are rarely replenished by other meals of the day

It's tempting to think that skipping breakfast can save calories, but research suggests otherwise. Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Medical School found that breakfast skippers are 4.5 times more likely to be obese than are breakfast eaters. That may be partly because breakfast skippers tend make up the calories throughout the day with less-healthy alternatives and because breakfast eaters are also giving their metabolism a boost.

But before you reach for donuts and coffee or start frying up some bacon, keep in mind that what you choose for breakfast is just as important as eating breakfast in the first place. Think whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins like seeds and nuts, because some studies have found that the traditional American breakfast of meat and eggs doesn't have the same healthful effects.

If you feel too busy for breakfast, stock your fridge with nutritious on-the-go options. Also, feel free to redefine breakfast foods. It's okay to eat a bowl of soup, or that leftover slice of whole grain veggie pizza from last night. Just like there's no rule that you can't spread hummus on a whole grain English muffin. Get creative!

If you're one of those people who just doesn't have an appetite in the morning, it could be the result of a late meal or snack from the night before. Perk up your morning appetite by eating lighter and earlier in the evenings. If all else fails, a light breakfast smoothie may be the answer. Try blending a mixture of low-fat yogurt, or soymilk with fruit, 100-percent fruit juice, and your favorite spices. Oat bran, wheat germ, and/or ground flax seed can be added for some extra fiber. Enjoy!